“Don’t touch wildlife!” urged Wonders of Wildlife founder Cheryl Rendes. “And never have wildlife as pets. You never know what it’s going to turn into.”

About 20 children ages 6 to 12 gathered inside a classroom at the Friendly Center, many of whom have never gone to the zoo or had an opportunity to experience animals up close. The unique meet-and-greet was a special preview of her animals that will be featured at the upcoming America’s Family Pet Expo.

With her menagerie – which included a Flemish rabbit, Ball python, opossum, Turkens (a breed of chicken), Savanna monitor lizard and bearded dragon – Rendes wowed and entertained the children with her display of scaled, feathered and furry friends, all of whom were rescued or surrendered.

The children’s reactions varied as each animal was presented, and each animal had a special story about how it was rescued by Wonders of Wildlife.

The Flemish rabbit was donated by a Marine at Camp Pendleton who was called to Iraq; Claire, the opossum, was abandoned by its mom; and the snakes and lizards were pets whose owners could no longer take care of or want them.

As each animal made its way around the circle, the children were invited to touch it.

“Use two fingers,” instructed Rendes. “Never startle, or wave your hands in front of its face.”

“I’m an edzoocator,” she said. “I teach kids to have a better appreciation, respect and understanding of nature and animals’ role in nature. And most importantly, the responsibility that pet ownership is a long-term commitment.”

The afternoon visit was highly anticipated by the children and staff at the Friendly Center.

“To see a 22-pound rabbit or touch a monitor lizard was remarkable,” said Lynn Herndon, education coordinator. “Many had no idea what these animals felt like. It was a true sensory experience, they were so excited.”

Celebrating its 25th year of promoting responsible pet care and ownership, the America’s Family Pet Expo will feature animal entertainment, pet education, interactive features and hundreds of animals available for adoption.

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